What Makes a Great Portrait?

I think it is important to have a simple background that doesn't distract the viewer from the subject, but rather compliments it in color, contrast, and focus. The angle of the photograph is another essential element of a portrait, and I think it is absolutely necessary to make sure that the angle is compatible with the emotion or expression that the person portrays (for example, looking down on someone to show their innocence). I think movement or purpose is critical in giving meaning to a portrait - or if not movement, some occupation that makes the person appear engaged in activity (like a girl holding dishes or flowers in her hands). If this isn't applicable, sometimes the background can play a greater role in adding detail and significance to a portrait photograph, like the rubble of a developing country behind a little boy or the vastness of an open space behind a praying woman. But I think that overall, the most important thing to remember about a portrait is that it should convey a message about the person or people it captures on film. It should attempt to provide a glimpse of the story of their life.